Blue-green algae found near Lakeview Park

Blue-green algae have been detected at Lakeview Park in Oshawa, but there is some good news.

Water samples taken from the area of the park’s east beach tested positive for the algae, according to an advisory from the Durham Region Health Department.

However, officials say there is no sign of a bloom, which can cause harm to both humans and animals.

But just because the bloom has not developed yet, doesn’t mean it won’t.

“While current test results…of water samples from Lakeview Beach East found a level of blue-green algae that does not indicate a bloom, we want people to understand that water conditions could change at any time and the health department may not be immediately aware of these changes,” says Laura Freeland, manager of health protection. “In particular, these changes could occur with warmer water temperatures which can help to increase algal growth. That’s why it’s important for people to look at the water for potential signs of blue-green algae, which could include scum or mats of algae on the water’s surface.”